Exploring Japan's Stunning Fireworks Spectacles via Train Travel
Top Japanese Fireworks Festivals to Visit in 2025
Japanese summer evenings are often illuminated by the dazzling spectacle of fireworks displays, a significant part of the country's cultural heritage. Here's a guide to some of the top fireworks festivals (hanabi taikai) that you should consider visiting in 2025.
- Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival (Tokyo)
Located in the heart of Tokyo, this traditional and formal festival takes place along the Sumida River. Accessible via multiple JR and Tokyo Metro lines to Asakusa or nearby stations along the Sumida River.
- Edogawa Fireworks Festival (Tokyo)
Another large-scale event in Tokyo, the Edogawa Fireworks Festival features about 15,000 shells launched. It can be reached from JR Sobu Line or Tokyo Metro Tozai Line to areas around Edogawa.
- Kamakura Fireworks Festival (Kanagawa Prefecture)
Held at Yuigahama Coast, this festival is known for its scenic beach location. Take the JR Yokosuka Line or Shonan-Shinjuku Line to Kamakura Station, then a short walk or local bus to Yuigahama Coast.
- Omagari Fireworks Festival (Akita Prefecture)
One of Japan’s top 3 fireworks contests, the Omagari Fireworks Festival features expert pyrotechnic competitions. Reach Omagari Station on the JR Akita Shinkansen or Ou Main Line; the festival venue is near Omagari Fireworks Park along the Omono River.
- Tone River Fireworks Festival (Sakai Riverside Park, Ibaraki Prefecture)
With over 30,000 fireworks choreographed to music, this festival is a must-see. From Tokyo, take the train via Utsunomiya to Koga Station, then a bus (about 1 hour) to Sakai Riverside Park.
- Tsukuba and Miyajima Water Fireworks
Unique experiences with water-based displays await you at Tsukuba and Miyajima.
- Nagaoka Fireworks Festival (Niigata Prefecture)
Famous for large, dramatic fireworks displays, the Nagaoka Fireworks Festival is accessible via Joetsu Shinkansen to Nagaoka Station; local buses or taxis go to the riverbank viewing areas.
For those planning to attend the Katakai Firework Festival, special shuttle buses run from Nagaoka Station to Katakai during the festival. However, due to its popularity, it's recommended to arrive early and expect some wait time.
Traveling to the Atami Fireworks Festival from Tokyo takes approximately 50 minutes by Shinkansen (bullet train). Initially organized to lift spirits following a major typhoon and fire, this festival takes place in Atami City, Shizuoka.
The Omagari Fireworks Festival, one of the most prestigious festivals in Japan, takes place annually on 30 August in Daisen City, Akita Prefecture. The Omagari Hanabi competition, held at the Omagari Fireworks Festival, features pyrotechnicians from across Japan showcasing their artistry and innovation. It's recommended to book a seat early for the best views.
If you're traveling from Osaka or Kyoto, first reach Tokyo, then transfer to the Akita Shinkansen to continue on to Omagari. The Katakai Firework Festival takes place on 12 and 13 September, and the Omagari Fireworks Festival showcases cutting-edge techniques and new technologies.
Arriving before sunset at the Omagari Fireworks Festival is recommended to catch the full atmosphere. Visiting a hanabi taikai may require research and planning, but the JR Pass has highlighted popular upcoming festivals and provided tips for travelers, including train travel information.
Hanabi means flower fire and symbolizes celebration, beauty, and honoring others. Each festival is typically well served during peak event days by local buses and extra train services due to large crowds, but booking accommodations nearby is strongly recommended because late-night transport options can be limited.
- Embarking on a trip to Japan in 2025, one may want to reconsider incorporating a lifestyle shift temporarily, opting for nights spent exploring the vibrant cityscapes and experiencing the tranquil ambiance, punctuated by the mesmerizing choreography of fireworks at some of the top fireworks festivals.
- For those with a penchant for travel and seeking unique cultural experiences, the Omagari Fireworks Festival in Akita Prefecture offers an opportunity to witness expert pyrotechnic competitions and is accessible via the JR Akita Shinkansen or Ou Main Line, providing a blend of traditional Japanese heritage and modern transportation convenience.
